Many successful OFWs make it their mission to give back to society, including Gerardo Rosselló, who continues to share his blessings with various communities in the Philippines through his organization.
From July 22 to 26, Gerardo visited Milagros to personally distribute bags filled with school supplies to 24 selected public elementary schools. As founder and chairman of two organizations, Sa Tama Tayo (Samahan Tapat at Maasahan Tawad Youth) and Kasama Kami (Kabalikatan at Samahan Malayang Kabatan in Milagros), Gerardo’s efforts are aimed at encouraging the youth of Milagros to contribute to nation building and make a difference.
“Mission accomplished! Teach not only our learners but also our parents that sobulan saya na nakapagbigay na naman tayong counting turong,” Gerald said after returning to the UAE.
The “amBAG Ko sa Milagros” project, which Gerard launched in 2014 with the support of TMA-BULIG, MKET and 4D3 Enterprises, initially provided bags, school supplies and t-shirts to over 2,000 first grade students in 39 primary schools in Milagros. Due to limited funding, the project continued in 2016 but only in a limited number of schools.
Last year, Gerardo focused on Tawad Elementary School and created a youth group in his Tawad neighborhood. In November, he expanded his vision to include all the youth in Milagros, culminating in the formation of Kasama Kami. By mid-May, Gerardo began planning for the continuation of his amBAG project and sought support from fellow overseas Filipinos who shared his cause.
“I am deeply grateful for the love and support shown to us by our silent donors, organization officials, volunteers and the Ajman Filipino community. We expect that next year, not only new first graders but also kindergarten to sixth graders will be the beneficiaries,” he said. “All the hardships caused by fatigue, heat and bad weather during the distribution were worth it when we saw the smiling faces of the children and the never-ending gratitude from their parents and teachers,” he added.
In addition to his charity work, Gerald serves as an auditor for the Ajman Filipino Community and actively participates in the club’s projects. A full-time employee, part-time model and actor, Gerald is also a recipient of the “Dakilang Manggagawang Pilipino sa UAE 2023” award and “Outstanding Community Leader 2023”.